13 Jan2015
Written by Dave Desveaux. Posted in Local News
The Cape Breton District Health Authority is putting visitor restrictions in place at all of its hospitals and other facilities on the island due to increased incidences of the flu, flu-like illnesses and gastrointestinal conditions. Under the restrictions, patients will only be allowed two visitors at a time, and only family or next of kin will be allowed to visit. Those who are under the age of 12 are prohibited from visiting, as are those who are sick or live with persons who are sick. Visitors will be required to wash their hands before and after their visit, and may be asked to observe infection prevention and control measures like wearing gowns, gloves or masks. Only one patient can be visited at any given time. The restrictions are being put in place after two local ER’s were closed due to overcapacity this week. District spokesperson Greg Boone tells the Coast that the restrictions were not trigged by the recent overcapacity issues in North Sydney and Glace Bay, though he notes that increased incidences of the flu and respiratory illnesses played a part in those two closures. The District says that the current visiting restrictions are precautionary and will remain in place until further notice.